How can I become a translator?

Question

I will have a degree in English (BA) in July 2008, I am fluent in Greek and English
what qualifications do i need?

Answer 1

It just depends... in the past, all that was needed was bi-lingualism, and a bit of luck to be in the right place at the right time. In the modern day, some regulation is being brought to the art... I think Bath runs an MA in translation that's supposed to be really good, I've just finished Newcastle university's MA in translation studies... there are professional associations as well, from memory I think the ILT is the British one, the Institute of Linguists and Translators- I think they have their own tests. To do free-lance work, you don't need any of this- http://www.translatorsbase.com is one example of a website which you pay a registration fee for, and then you can bid on projects that conform to your speciality.

I think free-lance can be a bit rough though- from what I've read, to make a living from it, you need to be working in a disciplined manner throughout the week, translating thousands of words a day, and your income is based upon how much you can put out- maybe you're talented enough for that, I don't know... I mean, talent and language ability is a big part of translation, but you can learn a lot about theory as well, either on a course, or through your own research. I'm aiming for an in-house post, I mean, in some company where senior staff will be able to offer guidance and advice, and I think the MA's going to be a boon in that...

I think there are quite a few options available in post-graduate courses, and possibly shorter courses offered by other institutions as well. I'd encourage you to think about it. For one thing, you can learn tips about the trade that you may not think of if you start freelance straight off, and have your work looked at by people with experience at the kind of jobs you're aiming for on a weekly basis. Secondly, it raises the bar. Compared to other professions, there is a feeling that translation and interpreting is not fully fledged as yet, and income is relatively lower. Of course, I'm a bit biased having just come off the course, but I think it's helped a lot. Being in groups with other translation students is pretty helpful, you can learn from other people's style, everyone benefits.

Answer 2

thats all you need sweet heart

I, (( Translator name goes here)), hereby certify that to the best of my knowledge and belief the foregoing translation is an accurate and true extract of the Birth Certificate original from the official records presented to me in the Spanish language into the English Language, and that I am competent in both, English and Spanish to render such translation. I attest only to the validity of the original text of the English translation and will not assume responsibility for any copies which do not conform to the original. IN WITNESS WHEREOF: I have hereunto affixed my signature this 27th day of July, 2006 in the City of Jersey City, County of Hudson, New Jersey.

this is how I do mine. You have all the qualifications, you just need to know how to read and write two languages or more and be able to write something from english to greek. You'll be fine.

Answer 3

You will have to learn languages and look on the internet for diferent job for translation and im sure you find a number you can ring and be a perfect translater Best Wishes $am !

Answer 4

Well Greek and English is Bilingual you should be a Multilingual like learn how to speak Chinese,Spanish,Russian,Indian and all of the languages believe me you will be popular.

Answer 5

Try the military or learn at a minimum 4 more languages and apply at the UN. Both those places always need linguists.

Answer 6

you need a degree in a language other than englis then do an MA in interpreting. You will only be allowed to work from your second language into your mother tongue not the other way round.

Answer 7

You are on the way. Have a go at the Civil Service exam en route, that opens many doors, as does the Customs and Excise exams.

Answer 8

There are special skills you need as a translator and there are schools where you can learn to be a translator. I suggest you try one of those.

Answer 9

Probley your best bet is to get a job in air port, they allways need translators, also you need to be abel to speak a few lanuages

Answer 10

you need to know more than one language